Access to Higher Education Diploma (Psychology)
Course code: CP4043A
01/09/2025
a future adult learner (19+)
Is this course right for me?
If you want to pursue a career in mental health, psychology, or a related field but don’t currently have the qualifications needed to go to university our Access to Higher Education Diploma (Psychology) course will give you the skills and knowledge to take the next step.
The Access to Higher Education qualification is widely recognised by universities and is designed to bridge the gap between your current qualifications and what’s needed for degree-level study.
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Psychology) is an intensive and challenging one-year course that explores a range of psychological theories and topics, with a strong emphasis on mental health and its connection to other disciplines such as criminology.
To succeed on this course, you will need to be motivated, focused, and willing to engage in independent study. Strong time management skills are essential especially if you are balancing study with work or family commitments.
Before you start the course, it is important that you have researched your chosen university degree, attended open days, and understand the progression route you want to take.
If you are passionate about psychology and mental health, our Access to Higher Education Diploma (Psychology) will provide the foundation you need to begin a rewarding and meaningful career.
Course details
Entry Requirements:
To access this course you are required to have:
- English at Level 2 (eg GCSE grade 4/C or above / equivalent Functional Skills qualification depending on individual university requirements)
- Maths at Level 2 (eg GCSE grade 4/C or above / equivalent Functional Skills qualification depending on individual university requirements) *
- Commitment to the course and be motivated and determined to be successful on this intensive programme of study
What will I learn?
During this course, you will develop both theoretical knowledge and practical academic skills, including:
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An introduction to psychology and mental health
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Key psychological perspectives and approaches
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Understanding mental health conditions and treatments
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Exploring the relationship between psychology and criminology
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Academic writing and research skills
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Presentation and debating techniques
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Literacy and numeracy development
What skills will I gain?
By studying this course, you will:
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Gain a solid foundation in psychological theory, research, and application
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Develop critical thinking and analytical skills needed for higher-level academic study
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Build confidence in verbal communication through presentations and debates
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Learn how to research, plan, and write academic assignments to university standard
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Strengthen your academic literacy and numeracy
Upon successful completion, you will gain an Access to Higher Education Diploma from AIM (The awarding body)
How will I be assessed?
This is an assessment-based course. You will be assessed through a combination of:
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Essays
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Research projects
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Presentations
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Group discussions
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Academic assignments
What can I do next?
The skills you will learn on this course will enable you to:
- Progress to a higher education degree in psychology, mental health, counselling, or related fields (Please check with your chosen university to ensure they accept this diploma for entry.)
- Begin your journey toward a career in areas such as mental health services, counselling, clinical psychology, or forensic psychology
Future careers
Whether you know what you want, or you don’t, get career inspo with our Future Finder.
At City of Wolverhampton College, we boast strong links with leading universities and over 1,000 employers – meaning our courses are all career focussed and relevant.
Like what you’ve seen?
Then it’s time to apply.
Unsure whats right for you?
Visit us at one of our Open Events and see what City of Wolverhampton College has to offer.
